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Sensory-Friendly Vaccine Kit

What are Sensory Friendly Vaccine Kits and How Can They Support Children with Behavioral and Healthcare Needs?

For much of the population, vaccination clinics can be a sensory-rich experience and present a barrier to vaccination.

People who experience sensory sensitivity or sensory overload can benefit from sensory-friendly experiences and environments. This may include children and youth with disability and behavioral concerns, including individuals living with autism, PTSD, or hearing loss. A 2019 meta-analysis indicated that sensory sensitivity is a major barrier to healthcare access for autistic individuals.

Sensory-friendly vaccine kits contain tools and strategies that can be used in vaccine clinics to create a more calming vaccine experience for patients. These kits contain a variety of different items designed to help provide distraction and teach useful coping skills.

fidget toys found in a vaccine kit for children

Items included in each kit:

  • Fidget toys (30+)
    • Fidget toys can help decrease anxiety by engaging the senses and serving as a distraction. Over 30 different toys are included in your kit that meet various sensory preferences.
  • Buzzy stimulator
    • The Buzzy stimulator uses cold and mechanical stimulation on the arm to inhibit the pain of a needle injection.
  • Noise-canceling headphones
    • Noise Canceling headphones help dampen the overwhelming sounds of a noisy clinic.
  • Weighted blanket
    • Weighted blankets simulate deep pressure touch, which can help relax the user by activating the parasympathetic nervous system.
  • Coping strategies workbook
    • This book helps providers understand and implement strategies for helping children cope with the anxiety experienced during a clinic visit. A number of worksheets are also included for hands-on
      learning opportunities.
  • Sanitizer
  • Satisfaction survey, distrAction cards, & more!
    • A satisfaction survey is included so providers and patients/families can provide feedback on their experiences with the kits. Please complete the survey whenever kit items are used and encourage patients over 12 or parents/families of children under 12 to complete the survey!

Buzzing bee vaccine kit toy for children

Other tips and tricks for creating a sensory-friendly vaccine clinic environment:

  • Remove bright and flashing lights
  • Reduce noise
  • Provide accessible bathrooms
  • Welcome caregivers
  • Provide snacks and water
  • Develop clear and concise instructions 
  • Create sensory-friendly hours

Contact Information

For questions about the vaccine kits, please contact Lauren Brown, Ph.D., BCBA-D. LBA.